Towing quotes are usually given by phone or text at the time of the call, often within minutes, though pre-arranged work such as relocating several vehicles, equipment transport, or recovery from a difficult spot may get a written quote. Customers compare the total price, estimated arrival time, and whether you take cards or insurance.
When to use estimates: Use estimates to provide project quotes and get client approval before starting work. Once approved, convert your estimate to an invoice with one click to collect payment.
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Invoice_1001_Client_2026-10-14.pdf
Mileage drives the price, and a quote based on a vague destination is easy to dispute.
AWD, lowered, or oversized vehicles may need a flatbed or dollies, and heavy-duty trucks cost more.
A car in a ditch, parking garage, or locked in with no keys may need winching or extra labor.
Tolls, winching, waiting time, and after-hours fees should be listed so the final bill matches the quote.
Customers choose between providers on arrival time, and delays can lead to canceled calls.
Covers your cost if the truck is dispatched and the customer cancels or the vehicle is already gone.
Setting this before the tow avoids standoffs at the drop-off location.
| Service | Priced | Typical range |
|---|---|---|
| Local light-duty tow (hookup, first 5-10 miles) | flat fee | $75-150 |
| Loaded mileage beyond included miles | per mile | $3-7 |
| Winching or light recovery | per hour | $100-225 |
| Jump start, lockout, or tire change | per service call | $45-100 |
| Fuel delivery | per call plus fuel | $50-100 |
| Impound or outdoor storage | per day | $25-75 |
| Heavy-duty tow or recovery | per hour | $200-450 |
| After-hours or holiday surcharge | flat fee | $25-100 |
Typical US ranges. Rates vary by region, experience, and job size.
Customers want a single number. Quote a flat fee covering the hookup and a set number of miles, then add per-mile pricing beyond that.
If recovery or winching may be needed, quote the hourly rate and a minimum rather than guessing the total. Confirm the extra charge before starting.
Nights, holidays, snow, and long wait times raise your costs. Explain the surcharge when you quote so it does not look like an add-on later.
For multi-vehicle moves, heavy-duty recovery, or long-distance tows, send a written quote with an expiration date and a deposit request.
Yes for standard tows. Ask for the pickup, destination, and vehicle type, then give a price that covers the hookup and miles. Follow with a text or email if possible, so the customer has it in writing.
Only if the job changed, such as a difficult recovery, extra miles, or longer wait times, and the customer agreed to it. If you quote a flat price, honor it unless conditions differ materially.
For private-pay and consent tows, getting a signature or recorded approval is a smart practice. Non-consent tows, such as private property impounds, are regulated in many areas and may have specific signage, notice, and rate requirements.
Many operators charge a partial or dry-run fee because the truck, driver, and fuel are committed. Mention it when quoting and keep it modest and consistent.
Use the Towing Service invoice template to bill the client, or convert this estimate once it's approved.
Towing Service invoice template